Separate-type air conditioner

Abstract: A separate-type air conditioner comprising: a heat exchanger (7,12) disposed in an indoor unit; and a plate-like dust collecting means (111) disposed in such a manner as to cover said heat exchanger (7,12), said dust collecting means being provided with net-like dust-collecting portions (112) having a dust-collecting function and with thin-walled portions (114) for bending which are provided in the form of strips, have their longitudinal directions arranged horizontally, and are disposed in parallel in spaced-apart relation to each other.

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a separate-type air conditioner in which an indoor unit is separated. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a conventional separate-type air conditioner shown in, for instance, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 60-118430/1985. In the drawing, reference numeral (1) denotes a casing of an indoor unit of a separate-type air conditioner; (2), a front panel at the front surface of the casing (1); (3), a front air inlet provided in the front surface of the front panel (2); (4), an upper air inlet provided in the upper surface of the front panel (2); (5), an air outlet provided at the underside of the front panel (2); and (6), a cross flow fan provided in the casing (1) and disposed at a position corresponding to the air outlet (5). Numeral (7) denotes a front heat exchanger disposed in the casing (1) and having an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion which are respectively formed in a receding manner and are disposed at positions corresponding to the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4), respectively. Numeral (8) denotes fins which are formed of a multiplicity of aluminum plates which are juxtaposed horizontally in a mutually spaced-apart relationship, their plate surfaces being arranged along the blowing direction of the cross flow fan (6). Numeral (9) denotes hair pin tubes of the front heat exchanger (7), the hair pin tubes (9) being formed by a plurality of heat exchanging pipes penetrating the fins (8). Numeral (10) denotes notched portions which are formed on the front and back sides of each fin (8) at a longitudinally intermediate position thereof, and numeral (11) denotes a filter disposed in front of the front heat exchanger (7). The conventional separate-type air conditioner is arranged as described above, and as the cross flow fan (6) is operated, air in the room to be air-conditioned is sucked through the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4) of the casing (1), and the dust in the air is removed by the filter (11). Then, heat exchange is effected by the front heat exchanger (7), and conditioned air is supplied through the air outlet (5) to the room to be air-conditioned. In addition, Fig. 15 is an enlarged view corresponding to a portion XXII of Fig. 14 above, and illustrates another conventional separate-type air conditioner. In the drawing, reference numeral (81) denotes a bent connecting portion of the fins (8), and (82) denotes an opening which is formed on the front side of the bent portion as the fins (8) are bent at the bent connecting portion (81). In the above-described conventional separate-type air conditioners, since the upper edge portion and the lower edge portion are respectively formed in a receding manner, and the front heat exchanger (7) opposing both the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4) is provided, the height of the casing (1) is made low, and the indoor unit is made compact. However, there has been a problem in that it is difficult to sufficiently increase the heat exchanging area, making it difficult to obtain high performance of heat exchange. In addition, since the filter (11) formed with a uniform thickness is disposed in front of the front heat exchanger (7) in a curved manner, there has been a problem in that a complicated procedure is involved. Furthermore, there has been a problem in that the air, which is sucked into the cross flow fan (6) through the openings (82) formed on the front sides of the bent portions of the fins (8), is difficult to come into contact with the fins (8), so that dehumidification is insufficient and dew condensation occurs on the cross flow fan (6). JP-A-63 251735 discloses an air conditioner comprising the features of the preamble of Claim 1. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been devised to overcome the above-described problems, and its primary object is to obtain a separation-type air conditioner capable of easily increasing the heat exchanging area of a compact indoor unit, thereby effecting high-performance heat exchange. In addition, a second object is to obtain a separation-type air conditioner capable of easily mounting and demounting a dust collecting means. Furthermore, a third object is to obtain a separation-type air conditioner where cavities formed in bent portions of the fins are small. The present invention provides a separate-type air conditioner as set out in Claim 1. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a separate-type air conditioner as set out in Claim 2. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger, and is arranged along the front air inlet, the upper air inlet, and the rear air inlet of the casing. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, since the dust collecting means is mounted along the inner surface of the casing, the area can be enlarged, so that there is an advantage in that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved, thereby making it possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities in the casing having the same height. The present invention further provides a separate-type air conditioner which comprises the features of Claim 3. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger and conform to the configuration of the heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, since the dust collecting means is mounted in conformity to the configuration of the heat exchanger, the area can be enlarged, so that there is an advantage in that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved, thereby making it possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities in the casing having the same height. The present invention further provides a separate-type air conditioner which comprises the features of Claim 4. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger, and is arranged along the front air inlet, the upper air inlet, and the rear air inlet of the casing by being guided to a predetermined position by the guide piece. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, since the dust collecting means is mounted along the inner surface of the casing, the area can be enlarged, so that there is an advantage in that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved, thereby making it possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities in the casing having the same height. Additionally, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means is guided to a predetermined position by the guide piece, so that there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means is further facilitated. The present invention further provides a separate-type air conditioner which comprises the features of Claim 5. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger, and is arranged along the front air inlet, the upper air inlet, and the rear air inlet of the casing. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, since the dust collecting means is mounted along the inner surface of the casing, the area can be enlarged, so that there is an advantage in that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved, thereby making it possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities in the casing having the same height. Additionally, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means is guided to a predetermined position by the guide rail, so that there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means is further facilitated. The present invention further provides a separate-type air conditioner which comprises the features of Claim 6. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is disposed at a predetermined position by the guide rail provided in the casing, and is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger and conform to the configuration of the heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means is guided to a predetermined position by the guide rail, so that there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means is further facilitated. The present invention further provides a separate-type air conditioner which comprises the features of Claim 7. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions disposed at positions corresponding to corner portions within the casing, in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger, and is arranged along the front air inlet, the upper air inlet, and the rear air inlet of the casing. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, since the dust collecting means can be mounted along the inner surface of the casing, the area can be enlarged, so that there is an advantage in that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved, thereby making it possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities in the casing having the same height. Additionally, since the thin-walled portions of the dust collecting means are respectively disposed at corner portions within the casing, there is an advantage in that high dust-collecting capabilities can be obtained. The present invention further provides a separate-type air conditioner which comprises the features of Claim 8. The plate-like dust collecting means, which is provided with the dust-collecting portions and the thin-walled portions for bending arranged in the form of strips, is mounted by being bent at the thin-walled portions disposed at positions corresponding to bent corner portions in the configuration of the heat exchanger, in such a manner as to cover the heat exchanger and conform to the configuration of the heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Furthermore, since the thin-walled portions of the dust collecting means are disposed at positions corresponding to bent corner portions in the configuration of the heat exchanger, there is an advantage in that high dust-collecting capabilities can be obtained. In addition, each of the separate-type air conditioners as described above may be provided with the heat exchanger comprising a front heat exchanger having an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion respectively formed in a receding manner and a rear heat exchanger disposed on a rear side of the front heat exchanger. In this case, heat exchange is effected by the heat exchanger comprising the front heat exchanger having an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion respectively formed in a receding manner and the rear heat exchanger disposed on the rear side of the front heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Additionally, there is an advantage of improving the dust-collecting efficiency. Moreover, the separate-type air conditioner may further comprise: dust collecting means for covering the heat exchanger including at least a half of the rear heat exchanger so that dust is collected from sucked-in air by the dust collecting means for covering the heat exchanger including at least a half of the rear heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Additionally, there is an advantage of improving the dust-collecting efficiency by virtue of the dust collecting means for covering the heat exchanger including at least a half of the rear heat exchanger. Also, the separate-type air conditioner may further comprise: air cleaning/dust collecting means disposed at a position corresponding to the upper edge portion of the front heat exchanger. In this case, dust is collected from sucked-in air by the air cleaning/dust collecting means disposed at a position corresponding to the upper edge portion of the front heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Additionally, there is an advantage of improving the dust-collecting efficiency by virtue of the air cleaning/dust collecting means and the dust collecting means. Also, the separate-type air conditioner may further comprise: air cleaning/dust collecting means disposed either between a front panel and the dust collecting means or between the dust collecting means and the front heat exchanger. In this case, dust is collected from sucked-in air by the air cleaning/dust collecting means disposed either between a front panel and the dust collecting means or between the dust collecting means and the front heat exchanger. Accordingly, when the dust collecting means is mounted, the dust collecting means can be shaped into a configuration adapted to the shape of the heat exchanger by means of the thin-walled portions for bending. Consequently, there is an advantage in that the operation of mounting the dust collecting means in a predetermined position inside the casing is facilitated. Additionally, there is an advantage of improving the dust-collecting efficiency by virtue of the air cleaning/dust collecting means and the dust collecting means. Further, each of the separate-type air conditioners noted above may further comprise: a heat exchanger in which fins are bent at a bent connecting portion provided at a position close to an air inlet. In this case, the heat exchanger is bent at the bent connecting portion provided at a position on the fins which is close to the air inlet, so that each opening formed at the position close to the air inlet becomes narrow, thereby allowing the sucked-in air to easily come into contact with the fins. Consequently, it is possible to increase the heat exchanging area in the indoor unit having the same height, and improve the heat exchanging capacity. Therefore, there is an advantage in that high-performance heat exchanging capabilities can be obtained in a compact indoor unit whose height is low. In addition, the heat exchanger is bent at the bent connecting portion provided at a position on the fins which is close to the air inlet, so that each opening formed at the position close to the air inlet becomes narrow. Hence, the sucked-in air is allowed to easily come into contact with the fins, so that it is possible to overcome the drawback of dew condensation occurring due to insufficient dehumidification because air is difficult to come into contact with the fins. Accordingly, there is an advantage in that it is possible to obtain high dehumidifying capabilities. Moreover, each of the separate-type air conditioners noted above may comprise: a heat exchanger in which fins are bent at a bent connecting portion provided at a position close to an air inlet, the heat exchanger having a junction which is formed as mutually opposing ends of the fins at the bent connecting portion approach each other. In this case, the heat exchanger is bent at the bent connecting portion provided at a position on the fins which is close to the air inlet, and mutually opposing ends of the fins at the bent connecting portion approach each other to form the junction. A gap between the opposing ends of the fins is reduced at the junction, thereby allowing the sucked-in air to easily come into contact with the fins. Consequently, it is possible to increase the heat exchanging area in the indoor unit having the same height, and improve the heat exchanging capacity. Therefore, there is an advantage in that high-performance heat exchanging capabilities can be obtained in a compact indoor unit whose height is low. In addition, the heat exchanger is bent at the bent connecting portion provided at a position on the fins which is close to the air inlet, and mutually opposing ends of the fins at the bent connecting portion approach each other to form the junction. For this reason, a gap between the opposing ends of the fins is reduced at the junction, thereby allowing the sucked-in air to easily come into contact with the fins. Accordingly, it is possible to overcome the drawback of dew condensation occurring due to insufficient dehumidification because air is difficult to come into contact with the fins. Hence, there is an advantage in that it is possible to obtain high dehumidifying capabilities. Fig. 1 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a developed front elevation of a dust collecting means shown in Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a right side elevation of Fig. 2; Fig. 4 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a second embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a third embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a fifth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a sixth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a seventh embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 10 is a vertical section side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating an eighth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 11 is a developed front elevation of a dust collecting means shown in Fig. 10; Fig. 12 is a right side elevation of Fig. 11; Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating a ninth embodiment of the present invention and corresponds to Fig. 15 which is described later; Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a conventional separate-type air conditioner; and Fig. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion XXII of Fig. 14. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 1st Embodiment Figs. 1 to 3 are diagrams illustrating an embodiment of the present invention, in which Fig. 1 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner; Fig. 2 is a developed front elevation of a dust collecting means shown in Fig. 1; and Fig. 3 is a right side elevation of Fig. 2. In the drawings, reference numeral (1) denotes the casing of the indoor unit of a separate-type air conditioner; (2), the front panel at the front surface of the casing (1); (3), the front air inlet provided in the front surface of the front panel (2); (4), the upper air inlet provided in the upper surface of the front panel (2); (5), the air outlet provided at the underside of the front panel (2); and (6), the cross flow fan provided in the casing (1) and disposed at a position corresponding to the air outlet (5). Numeral (7) denotes the front heat exchanger disposed in the casing (1) and having an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion which are respectively formed in a receding manner and are disposed at positions corresponding to the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4), respectively. Numeral (8) denotes fins which are formed of a multiplicity of aluminum plates which are juxtaposed horizontally in a mutually spaced-apart relationship, their plate surfaces being arranged along the blowing direction of the cross flow fan (6). Numeral (9) denotes hair pin tubes of the front heat exchanger (7), the hair pin tubes (9) being formed by a plurality of heat exchanging pipes penetrating the fins (8). Numeral (100) denotes a bent portion formed between the upper edge portion and the lower edge portion of the front heat exchanger (7), and numeral (111) denotes a plate-like dust collecting means disposed in such a manner as to cover the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4), the dust collecting means (111) being comprised of net-like dust-collecting portions (112) having a dust-collecting function, a frame (113) for fixing the dust-collecting portions (112), thin-walled portions (114) for bending which are provided on the frame (113) in the form of strips, have their longitudinal directions arranged horizontally, and are disposed in parallel in spaced-apart relation to each other, a horizontal-movement preventing piece (115) projecting downward, and a vertical-movement preventing piece (116) projecting toward the front. Numeral (12) denotes the rear heat exchanger arranged in the same way as the front heat exchanger (7) and formed separately from the front heat exchanger (7). The rear heat exchanger (12) is disposed on the rear side of the front heat exchanger (7) in correspondence with the upper air inlet (4), and is arranged such that its upper edge portion is disposed in proximity to the front heat exchanger (7) and its lower edge portion is inclined in a direction away from the front heat exchanger (7). Numeral (221) denotes a stopper provided on the inner surface of the front panel (2). The stopper (221) supports the vertical-movement preventing piece (116) by means of its upper surface, and is provided with a fitting hole (222) into which the horizontal-movement preventing piece (115) is fitted. Numeral (23) denotes an air-cleaning/dust-collecting means which is disposed at a position close to an upper portion of the front panel (2), and is arranged between the dust collecting means (111) and the inner surface of the front panel (2). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) is mounted in the casing (1) through the following operation: Namely, the front panel (2) is opened, and the dust collecting means (111) is placed in such a manner as to cover the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12). Then, if the horizontal-movement preventing piece (115) of the dust collecting means (111) is fitted in the fitting hole (222) of the stopper (221), the vertical-movement preventing piece (116) is supported on the stopper (221). The dust collecting means (111) is thereby disposed in a predetermined position inside the casing (1). In addition, when the dust collecting means (111) is mounted, the dust collecting means (111) can be easily shaped into a configuration adapted to the shapes of the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) by means of the thin-walled portions (114) for bending. Consequently, the dust collecting means (111) can be easily mounted in a predetermined position inside the casing through a simple operation. The upper air inlet (4) portion provided at the upper surface of the front panel (2) is arranged to be openable, and the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means (23) can be mounted or demounted by opening this portion. In addition, since the dust collecting means (111) is provided with the plurality of thin-walled portions (114), the dust collecting means (111) can be used as common component parts for indoor units of a multiplicity of types. Also, since the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means (23) is disposed in correspondence with the upper edge portion of the front heat exchanger (7), it is possible to obtain an efficient dust-collecting effect. Furthermore, by disposing the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means (23) either between the front panel (2) and the dust collecting means (111) or between the dust collecting'means (111) and the front heat exchanger (7), it is possible to obtain a required dust-collecting effect. 2nd Embodiment Fig.4 is also a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (101) denotes a rear air inlet provided in an upper rear surface of the casing (1); (111) denotes the dust collecting means disposed in such a manner as to cover the upper air inlet (4) and the rear air inlet (101) and mounted along the inner surface of the front panel (2); and (23) denotes the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means disposed between the dust collecting means (111) and the front heat exchanger (7). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is mounted by an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 can also be obtained in the embodiment shown in Fig. 4. In addition, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, since the dust collecting means (111) is mounted along the inner surface of the casing (1), the area of the dust collecting means (111) is enlarged, so that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved. Furthermore, since the dust-collecting portions (112) are provided for the upper air inlet (4) and the rear air inlet (101), respectively, it is possible to obtain a more reliable dust-collecting effect. For this reason, in the indoor unit of the casing (1) having the same height, it is possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities. 3rd Embodiment Fig. 5 is also a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (111) denotes the dust collecting means covering both the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) and mounted in such a manner as to conform to the respective configurations of these heat exchangers; and (23) denotes the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means disposed between the dust collecting means (111) and the front panel (2). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is mounted by an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 can also be obtained in the embodiment shown in Fig. 5. In addition, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, since the dust collecting means (111) is made to conform to the configurations of the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) and is mounted on the inner surface of the front panel, the area of the dust collecting means (111) is enlarged, so that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved. For this reason, in the indoor unit of the casing (1) having the same height, it is possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities. Additionally, since the dust collecting means (111) is disposed in conformity to the configurations of the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12), the space within the casing (1) can be saved, and unillustrated devices for other functions can be accommodated in the saved space. 4th Embodiment Fig.6 is also a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (24) denotes guide pieces which are disposed at a corner portion between the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4) in the panel (2) and at a corner portion between the upper air inlet (4) and the rear air inlet (101). Numeral (23) denotes the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means disposed between the dust collecting means (111) and the front heat exchanger (7). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is mounted by an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 can also be obtained in the embodiment shown in F Fig. 6 In addition, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, when the dust collecting means (111) is mounted, the dust collecting means (111) is guided to a predetermined position by the guide pieces (24), so that the dust collecting means (111) can be easily mounted in a predetermined position in the casing (1) by a simpler operation. 5th Embodiment Fig. 7 is also a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (25) denotes a guide rail in the form of a groove which is provided in the casing (1) and is disposed along the front air inlet (3) and the upper air inlet (4) in the panel (2) and in correspondence with the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12). Numeral (26) denotes a stopper provided at a terminating end of the guide rail (25) at a position close to the rear heat exchanger (12). Numeral (23) denotes the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means disposed between the dust collecting means (111) and the front heat exchanger (7). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is inserted into the guide rail (25) and is guided by making use of the guiding action through an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs.1 to 3. Then, the dust collecting means (111) is stopped at a predetermined position by the stopper (26) and is thus mounted. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 for mounting the dust collecting means (111) in a predetermined position within the casing (1) can also be obtained easily in the embodiment shown in Fig. 7 through an even simpler operation. In addition, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the upper air inlet (4) portion is arranged to be openable, and after the upper air inlet (4) portion is opened, the dust collecting means (111) is mounted at a predetermined position by means of the guide rail (25) and the stopper (26). Furthermore, since the dust-collecting portions (112) are disposed at the front air inlet (3) the upper air inlet (4), and the rear air inlet (101), respectively, it is possible to obtain a more reliable dust-collecting effect. 6th Embodiment Fig.8 is also a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (25) denotes the guide rail in the form of a groove which is provided in the casing (1) and is disposed in correspondence with the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) in the front panel (2). Numeral (26) denotes the stopper provided at the terminating end of the guide rail (25) at a position close to the rear heat exchanger (12). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is inserted into the guide rail (25) and is guided by making use of the guiding action through an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Then, the dust collecting means (111) is stopped at a predetermined position by the stopper (26) and is thus mounted. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 for mounting the dust collecting means (111) in a predetermined position within the casing (1) can also be obtained easily in the embodiment shown in Fig. 8 through an even simpler operation. In addition, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 8, the upper air inlet (4) portion is arranged to be openable, and after the upper air inlet (4) portion is opened, the dust collecting means (111) is mounted at a predetermined position by means of the guide rail (25) and the stopper (26). Furthermore, since the dust collecting means (111) is disposed in conformity to the configurations of the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12), the space within the casing (1) can be saved, and unillustrated devices for other functions can be accommodated in the saved space. 7th Embodiment Fig. 9 is also a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention. In the drawing, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (111) denotes the dust collecting means which is provided in the casing (1) and in which the thin-walled portions (114) for bending are provided in respective corner portions close to the upper front and the upper rear of the casing (1). Numeral (23) denotes the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means which is disposed between the dust collecting means (111) and the front heat exchanger (7). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is mounted by an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 can also be obtained in the embodiment shown in Fig. 9 through a simpler operation. In addition, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 9, since the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending formed in the respective corner portions close to the upper front and the upper rear of the casing (1) is mounted along the inner surface of the front panel (2) and the rear air inlet (101), the area of the dust collecting means (111) is enlarged, so that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved. For this reason, in the indoor unit of the casing (1) having the same height, it is possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities. Furthermore, since the thin-walled portions (114) of the dust collecting means (111) are formed in the respective corner portions close to the upper front and the upper rear of the casing (1), it is possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities. Additionally, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 9, the upper air inlet (4) portion is arranged to be openable, and after the upper air inlet (4) portion is opened, the dust collecting means (111) is mounted at a predetermined position via the front panel (2) and the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means (23). Moreover, since the thin-walled portions (114) of the dust collecting means (111) are reduced, the processing cost can be reduced, thereby making it possible to cut back on the fabrication cost. 8th Embodiment Figs. 10 to 12 are diagrams illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention, in which Fig. 10 is a vertical sectional side elevation of a separation-type air conditioner; Fig. 12 is a developed front elevation of a dust collecting means shown in Fig. 10; and Fig. 12 is a right side elevation of Fig. 11. In the drawings, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (111) denotes a plate-like dust collecting means which is disposed in such a manner as to cover the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) and conform to the configurations of these heat exchangers. In the dust collecting means (111), the thin-walled portions (114) for bending are provided at positions corresponding to a bent portion of the front heat exchanger (7), an upper edge portion of the front heat exchanger (7), and an upper edge portion of the rear heat exchanger (12), respectively. The thin-walled portions (114) for bending have V-shaped cross sections, have their longitudinal directions arranged horizontally, and are disposed in parallel in spaced-apart relation to each other. In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is mounted by an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 can also be obtained in the embodiment shown in Figs. 10 to 12. In addition, in the embodiment shown in Figs. 10 to 12, the dust collecting means (111) is made to conform to the configurations of both the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) by means of the thin-walled portions (114) for bending, and is disposed along these heat exchangers. Accordingly, the area of the dust collecting means (111) is enlarged, so that the dust-collecting capabilities can be improved. For this reason, in the indoor unit of the casing (1) having the same height, it is possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities. Additionally, in the embodiment shown in Figs. 10 to 12, the upper air inlet (4) portion is arranged to be openable, and after the upper air inlet (4) portion is opened, the dust collecting means (111) is mounted at a predetermined position via the front panel (2) and the air-cleaning/dust-collecting means (23). Further, since the thin-walled portions (114) of the dust collecting means (111) are disposed at the bent corner portions in the configurations of the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchanger (12) as shown in Fig. 10, it is possible to obtain high dust-collecting capabilities. Furthermore, since the dust collecting means (111) is disposed in conformity to the configurations of the front heat exchanger (7) and the rear heat exchangerhh (12), the space within the casing (1) can be saved, and unillustrated devices for other functions can be accommodated in the saved space. Moreover, since the thin-walled portions (114) of the dust collecting means (111) are reduced, the processing cost can be reduced, thereby making it possible to cut back on the fabrication cost. 9th Embodiment Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating a further embodiment of the present invention and corresponding to Fig. 15 referred to earlier. As for other unillustrated components and portions of Fig. 13, the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner is arranged in the same way as in Figs. 1 to 3 referred to above. In the drawings, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1 to 3 show corresponding parts or portions. Reference numeral (81) denotes a bent connecting portion of the fins (8), which is provided at a position on the fins (8) which is close to the front air inlet (3). Numeral (82) denotes an opening which is formed on the front side of the bent portion as the fins (8) are bent at the bent connecting portion (81), and numeral (83) denotes a junction which is formed as vertically mutually opposing ends of the fins (8) approach each other when the fins (8) are bent at the bent connecting portion (81). In the indoor unit of the separation-type air conditioner arranged as described above, the dust collecting means (111) having the thin-walled portions (114) for bending is mounted by an operation similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Accordingly, although a detailed description will be omitted, it is apparent that an effect similar to that of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3 can also be obtained in the embodiment shown in Fig. 13. Also, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 13, as the bent connecting portion (81) is provided at a position on the fins (8) which is close to the front air inlet (3) and the fins (8) are bent, the vertically mutually opposing ends of the fins (8) approach each other and the junction (83) is formed. Consequently, each opening (82) becomes narrow, so that it is possible to overcome the drawback of dew condensation occurring on the cross flow fan (6) due to insufficient dehumidification because the air, which is sucked into the cross flow fan (6) through the openings (82), is difficult to come into contact with the fins (8). Accordingly, in the compact indoor unit in which the height of the casing (1) is low, it is possible to obtain high dehumidifying capabilities. Additionally, as the junction (83) is formed when the fins (8) are bent and the vertically mutually opposing ends approach each other, a gap between the vertically mutually opposing ends decreases. Accordingly, it is also possible to overcome the drawback of dew condensation occurring on the cross flow fan (6) due to insufficient dehumidification because the air, which is sucked into the cross flow fan (6) through the openings (82), is difficult to come into contact with the fins (8). Accordingly, in the compact indoor unit in which the height of the casing (1) is low, it is possible to obtain high dehumidifying capabilities.

Claims: A separate-type air conditioner (2) comprising: a heat exchanger (7,12) disposed in an indoor unit; and a plate-like dust collecting means (111) disposed in such a manner as to cover said heat exchanger (7,12), said dust collecting means (111) being provided with net-like dust-collecting portions (112) having a dust-collecting function; characterised in that said dust-collecting portions are provided with thin-walled portions (114) for bending which are provided in the form of strips, have their longitudinal directions arranged horizontally, and are disposed in parallel in spaced-apart relation to each other. A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 1, wherein said plate-like dust collecting means (111) is arranged along a front air inlet (3), an upper air inlet (4) and a rear air inlet (101) of a casing (1) in which said heat exchanger is disposed. A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 1, wherein said plate-like dust collecting means (111) conforms to a configuration of said heat exchanger (7,12). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 2, further comprising: a guide piece (24) disposed at a corner portion within said casing (1). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 2, further comprising: a guide rail (25) provided in said casing (1) for disposing said dust collecting means (111) at a predetermined position by engaging an end portion of said dust collecting means (111). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 3, further comprising: a guide rail (25) provided in a casing for disposing said dust collecting means (111) at a predetermined position by engaging an end portion of said dust collecting means (111). A separate-type air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein said thin-walled portions (114) are disposed at positions corresponding to corner portions within said casing (1). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 3, wherein said thin-walled portions (114) are disposed at positions corresponding to bent corner portions in the configuration of said heat exchanger (7,12). A separate-type air conditioner according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, wherein said heat exchanger (7,12) comprises a front heat exchanger (7) having an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion respectively formed in a receding manner and a rear heat exchanger (12) disposed on a rear side of said front heat exchanger (7). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 9, wherein said dust collecting means (111) covers said heat exchanger including at least a half of said rear heat exchanger (7). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 9, further comprising: air cleaning/dust collecting means (23) disposed at a position corresponding to the upper edge portion of said front heat exchanger (7). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 9, further comprising: air cleaning/dust collecting means (23) disposed either between a front panel and said dust collecting means (111) or between said dust collecting means (111) and said front heat exchanger (7). A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 1, wherein fins (8) of said heat exchanger (7,12) are bent at a bent connecting portion provided at a position close to an air inlet. A separate-type air conditioner according to Claim 1, wherein fins (8) of said heat exchanger (7,12) are bent at a bent connecting portion provided at a position close to an air inlet, said heat exchanger having a junction which is formed as mutually opposing ends of said fins at said bent connecting portion approach each other.

Inventors: NISHIGAKI NATSUKO, SANO MOTOO, SATOU MOTOSHIGE, TAKAMORI AKIRA, TANIKAWA YOSHINORI, YOSHIHASHI MAKOTO, NISHIGAKI, NATSUKO, SANO, MOTOO, SATOU, MOTOSHIGE, TAKAMORI, AKIRA, TANIKAWA, YOSHINORI, YOSHIHASHI, MAKOTO, Nishigaki, Natsuko, c/o Mitsubishi Denki K.K., Sano, Motoo, c/o Mitsubishi Denki K.K., Satou, Motoshige, c/o Mitsubishi El. Eng. Co. Ltd., Takamori, Akira, c/o Mitsubishi Denki K.K., Tanikawa, Yoshinori, Mitsubishi El. Eng. Co. Ltd., Yoshihashi, Makoto, c/o Mitsubishi Denki K.K.
Applicants: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORP, MITSUBISHI DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Application year: 1994
Main classification: F24F1
IPC codes: F28F1, F24F1